Heavy Metals Found in Fire Retardant Used in California Wildfires

Following recent California wildfires, LAist partnered with USC researchers to test samples of MVP-FX, a fire retardant used in the Palisades and Eaton fires. The tests revealed the presence of toxic heavy metals including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium. While the manufacturer, Perimeter Solutions, claims the levels are below EPA limits and naturally occurring, their safety data sheet omits this information. Cal Fire and the US Forest Service dismissed the findings, citing potential contamination of the field samples. This investigation raises concerns about the safety and transparency of fire retardants, highlighting potential health risks to firefighters and the public, as well as long-term environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems.